-Deborah Akinyosoye
The Oyo State Government has banned heavy-duty trucks and trailers from using the newly commissioned Iseyin-Fapote-Ogbomoso Expressway.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, in Ibadan, the state capital, the government said the decision was necessary to protect the road’s integrity, which is crucial for improving agrarian transportation, trade, and intercity commutes.
He emphasised that the Ministry of Public Works had to act swiftly to prevent damage to the expressway, which was designed for lighter vehicles, such as cars and buses.
The statement also quoted the Commissioner for Public Works, Dawoud Sangodoyin, as explaining that the measure was taken in response to the diversion of heavy-duty vehicles from the incomplete Federal Government Ibadan-Oyo-Ogbomoso Road.
He highlighted the expressway’s significance to the state’s economic growth.
“This road was primarily designed to facilitate agrarian transport, trade, and intercity commuting, all aimed at boosting the state’s economy.
“The incursion of heavy trailers could structurally compromise the road, despite its resilience, and undermine its intended purpose.
“Only buses, light trucks, and cars are permitted to use the route until further notice.
“The Iseyin-Fapote-Ogbomoso Expressway, stretching 76.67 kilometres through previously uncharted terrain of lakes and rocks, was commissioned on 30 May 2024.”
He added that the project is expected to greatly improve transportation and economic activities within the state.